“Valence,” a word that might conjure images of sun-drenched fields. Yet here in Paris, it graces a street steeped in history: Rue de Valence. This unassuming street in the 5th arrondissement tells a story of water mills, Russian libraries, and a noblewoman’s residence.
Rue de Valence is located in the Jardin-des-Plantes quarter. This street is not particularly long. It stretches just 109 meters. Its width is 12 meters. Rue de Valence starts at Avenue des Gobelins. It ends at Rue Pascal. You can easily reach the street. The closest metro station is Les Gobelins on line 7.
But why “Valence?” The street owes its name to a former private mansion. It belonged to Madame de Valence. Before becoming Rue de Valence, it was known as Passage de Valence.
Let’s rewind to a time when the Bièvre River flowed freely here. On the site of number 2 Rue de Valence stood the Saint-Marcel water mill. It had many names. Some called it the Grand Moulin. Others knew it as Moulin Saint-Hyppolyte, Moulin de la Collégiale, or Moulin Fidèle. This mill stood on the left bank of the Bièvre. Sadly, it was demolished around 1829.
Rue de Valence is also home to a small green space. That’s the Square Valence at number 7. It’s a quiet spot. The square even has a Parisian street sign.
At number 11, you’ll find the Russian Library Tourguenev. It stands as a testament to cultural exchange and intellectual pursuits.
So, as you walk along Rue de Valence, remember its layers of history. From water mills to noble residences, this street is a microcosm of Parisian life. It is short but full of stories.